Colombia boss Jose Pekerman has revealed that star man James Rodriguez could be fit for tomorrow evening’s World Cup Round of 16 match with England.
The South American’s qualified as winners of Group H meaning they will face Gareth Southgate’s England side who finished as runners-up in Group G.
In their previous match against Senegal, James had to be substituted off in the first-half after struggling with fitness from the first whistle. It was later confirmed that the attacking midfielder had received some minor damage to his calf muscle.
A statement was released regarding James’ condition after the match, which showed the result of minor swelling, but fortunately for the star there no muscle tear on his right soleus.
However, Colombia boss Pekerman believes that James – who became one of the stars of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil – is showing signs that he will be fit for the big clash tomorrow evening in Moscow.
“We had good news after his medical tests. After his MRI (scan) we knew that he doesn’t have a serious injury,” said the 68-year-old boss (via Sky Sports)
“We still have one-and-a-half days to see how he feels, and as always we hope that he will be able to play in the following games.”
Should James not make the starting XI then Pekerman could call on the man who replaced him against Senegal, Sevilla forward Luis Muriel, who drew wide praise from his veteran coach after the match.
He added: “Muriel is an option. He was great during the match against Senegal.
“He was able to change the pace, he’s technically gifted and really fast. He works well with the team.”
The match between Colombia and England kicks off at 7pm on Tuesday at the Otkrytiye Arena.
The post Colombia positive about James Rodriguez fitness after ‘good news’ ahead of England clash appeared first on Squawka News.
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